If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, it’s important to be prepared for them no matter where you are. If you happen to be driving when an earthquake strikes, it’s important to know what to do to protect yourself and your passengers. Here are some expert tips for earthquake preparedness in a car.
Before an Earthquake Strikes
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Secure loose objects in your car. Before you hit the road, make sure any loose objects in your car are secured. This includes things like water bottles, phones, and other items that could become dangerous projectiles if the car jolts suddenly.
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Keep emergency supplies in your car. It’s always a good idea to have emergency supplies in your car, especially if you live in an earthquake-prone area. These supplies should include food and water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a blanket.
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Identify safe places to pull over. If an earthquake strikes while you’re driving, it’s important to know where to pull over safely. Look for wide shoulders, parking lots, or other areas away from buildings and power lines.
During an Earthquake
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Pull over safely. If you’re driving when an earthquake strikes, the first thing you should do is pull over safely in a location away from buildings and power lines. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
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Stay in your car. Once you’ve pulled over, stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. Don’t try to get out of your car, as debris could be falling from nearby buildings.
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Avoid bridges and overpasses. If you’re driving on a bridge or overpass when an earthquake strikes, don’t try to stop or get off. Instead, slow down and drive to the end of the bridge or overpass as quickly as possible.
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Stay calm. It’s important to stay calm during an earthquake, especially if you’re driving. Keep your hands on the steering wheel and try not to panic.
After an Earthquake
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Assess the situation. Once the shaking has stopped, assess the situation before moving. Look for hazards like downed power lines or damaged roads.
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Use caution when driving. If you do need to continue driving after an earthquake, use caution. Roads may be damaged, and there could be debris in the road.
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Check for damage to your car. After an earthquake, check your car for damage. Look for cracks in the windows or body of the car, and check the tires for damage.
FAQ
- What should I do if I’m driving and an earthquake strikes? Pull over safely in a location away from buildings and power lines. Stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
- Should I try to get out of my car during an earthquake? No, don’t try to get out of your car. Debris could be falling from nearby buildings.
- What supplies should I keep in my car for earthquake preparedness? It’s a good idea to keep food and water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a blanket in your car.
- What should I do if I’m driving on a bridge during an earthquake? Slow down and drive to the end of the bridge or overpass as quickly as possible.
- Should I be concerned about my car’s safety after an earthquake? Yes, check your car for damage after an earthquake. Look for cracks in the windows or body of the car, and check the tires for damage.